Prayagraj: To give global branding to Uttar Pradesh’s rich culinary heritage, one dish will be identified from each district of the state and govt will promote and connect it to the global market. Netram’s kachori and Hari’s samosas are leading the race in the Sangam City.Launched under Ek Janpad Ek Vyanjan (One District One Cuisine) scheme, it is expected to give Prayagraj’s specialities a new identity. Efforts are on to connect cuisines of Uttar Pradesh, rich in its diverse cultural heritage, with local livelihoods and tourism. Govt plans also to develop a culinary street in every major city and town. Prayagraj’s cuisine will be included in the lottery under the One District One Cuisine scheme launched in the budget and govt allocated Rs 75 crore for its implementation.Hari’s samosas have delighted with their flavour in the city’s Loknath neighbourhood since 1890. Started in the name of Hariram Purwar, the shop is now run by the clan’s third generation.Arvind Purwar of Hari & Sons says their ‘chhota masala’ samosas are small and fried in desi ghee giving it a distinctive flavour and a shelf-life of 15 days. Also in the running for ‘signature dish’, Netram’s kachori from the city’s Katra Square, a snacking staple since 1854. Neither has its 168 years old flavour changed, nor the preference of its patrons. Mukesh Agarwal, who carries forward the tradition, says their strongest case for claiming the ‘One District, One Cuisine’ scheme is the delicious taste and purity.Govt’s promotional scheme could serve as a powerful platform for local dishes, providing employment to traditional cooks and food entrepreneurs and also help standardise quality, improve packaging and marketing and create opportunities for small vendors, self-help groups and local food businesses.
